Congress Leader Ramnath Rai Sparks Controversy Over Saffron Flag at Temples

Remarks Criticised as Linking the Saffron Flag to Party Politics

Udupi (Karnataka) — A political controversy has erupted after Congress leader and former minister Ramnath Rai stated that the saffron flag should not be hoisted at temples. His comments came in the context of objections raised by the Udupi unit of the Indian National Congress over the hoisting of the saffron flag during the ‘Paryaya’ festival at the Udupi Sri Krishna Matha, with a demand for action against the district administration.

Rai said that no flags, whether saffron or associated with any political party, should be hoisted in temples, arguing that all “politically motivated flags” should be opposed. His statement has triggered sharp reactions from political leaders and on social media.

Responding to the remarks, Dakshina Kannada Member of Parliament Brijesh Chowta criticised Rai in a post on X, stating that the Congress has no authority to dictate what Hindus should or should not do. He added that the party, which he alleged stands with the Social Democratic Party of India, has no right to advise Hindus on how to observe their festivals and traditions.

The comments have also drawn widespread criticism online, with users questioning why the saffron flag, described by critics as a religious symbol with ancient roots, is being portrayed as political. Several posts contrasted the remarks with what they alleged was tolerance shown toward other controversial slogans, asking what standards were being applied.

What Is the Paryaya Festival ?

The Paryaya is a major religious and cultural festival celebrated at the Udupi Sri Krishna Matha. It marks the ceremonial transfer of the right to worship Lord Krishna and the administrative responsibilities of the monastery among the eight principal (Ashta) Udupi mathas. The festival is a significant event in the religious calendar of Udupi and is observed with traditional rituals and ceremonie